In an interview with American media last Friday evening, prior to his talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Trump explained that the Chinese President told him, “I won’t do that as long as you are President,” adding that “Xi also emphasized that China is very patient.” Trump indicated that he does not expect action against Taiwan during his presidency, but said, “We will see,” according to his expression.
The Chinese embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the U.S. President’s statements. This was the first confirmed call between Trump and Xi since the start of his second term, following a previous call whose timing was not disclosed.
Lai’s office stated that “there are no immediate plans to travel abroad due to hurricane relief efforts and trade talks with Washington,” although sources indicated that “the decision came after the United States refused to allow him to stop in New York.”
The report published by the Financial Times stated that Lai Ching-te “intended to stop in Dallas, whether the United States had only prevented his visit to New York or entirely barred his passage through the country.” Beijing considers Taiwan part of Chinese territory and threatens to reclaim it by force if necessary, while the ruling Democratic Progressive Party on the island sees it as an independent state.
It is noteworthy that China warned the United States against supporting Taiwan and encouraging what China describes as “dangerous policies,” after Washington announced that it would assist Taiwan if it were attacked by China.
